Bachelor Of Arts - Honours Arts - Political Science (Co-op) at University of Waterloo - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

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Program overview

Explore the dynamic world of politics with the Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts - Political Science (Co-op) program at Waterloo, one of Canada's leading universities. This program is designed for those passionate about understanding and influencing the political landscape, from civil unrest to global trade negotiations. Students will develop essential skills in analysis, writing, critical thinking, and research through a blend of lectures, seminars, and workshops. With a focus on comparative politics, international relations, and political theory, graduates will be well-equipped to make a meaningful impact in today's complex world.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts - Political Science (Co-op) program offers a comprehensive structure that integrates academic learning with practical experience. The program is designed to be completed over a four-year period, allowing students to alternate between study and work terms, gaining valuable experience in the field.

Key features of the program structure include:

Program Length: Four years
Co-op option available, providing students with 20 months of paid work experience
Regular study schedule with alternating co-op terms starting from the second year
Opportunity to customize the degree with specializations and minors

This structure not only enhances academic knowledge but also prepares students for real-world challenges in the political arena.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts - Political Science (Co-op) program offers a variety of unique experiences that enrich the educational journey:

Co-op placements that provide relevant paid work experience in various political and public service roles
Hands-on learning through seminars and workshops led by top scholars in the field
Opportunities to engage in international policy debates and discussions
Access to a wide range of elective courses that cover topical issues in politics and global affairs
Possibility to specialize in International Relations, enhancing understanding of global politics

These experiences are designed to prepare students for successful careers in the political science field.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts - Political Science (Co-op) program have a wide array of career opportunities available to them in Canada. Here are some potential job roles:

Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies for government or organizations, ensuring they meet the needs of the public.
Public Affairs Coordinator: Manage communication strategies and public relations efforts for organizations, focusing on political and social issues.
Research Analyst: Conduct research and analysis on political trends, providing insights to inform decision-making.
Trade Policy Officer: Work with government agencies to develop and implement trade policies that promote economic growth.
Legal Counsel: Provide legal advice and representation for organizations, particularly in matters related to public policy and human rights.

These roles highlight the diverse career paths available to graduates, equipping them to make significant contributions in various sectors.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts - Political Science (Co-Op) program at the University of Waterloo, the following Academic Requirements must be met:

Minimum GPA: A minimum overall average of 8.3 is required for admission.
Prerequisite Courses: Students must have completed English and Mathematics with a minimum grade of 7.5 in each.
General Requirements for International Students:
- For Vietnamese students, the Bàng Tốt Nghiệp Phố Thông Trung Học (Secondary School Graduation Certificate) is required.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

It is advisable for all students to apply as soon as possible to ensure they meet the necessary deadlines. For any clarification or support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

English Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at the University of Waterloo. Success in our programs requires a high level of English language proficiency.

You need to provide an English language test score if:

your four most recent years of full-time education have NOT been in an English-language school system AND
your first language is NOT English.

Required English Language Scores

Tests that do not appear on this chart are not accepted for admission consideration.

Official test scores must be sent by the testing agency directly to Waterloo's Office of the Registrar. Emails, faxes, and student copies of test scores are not accepted for admission.

Test	Minimum Score	How to Send Test Results
Internet-based TOEFL (iBT), including Home Edition and Paper Edition	90 overall, 25 writing, 25 speaking	Waterloo's institution code is 0996 and our department code is 00. We do not accept electronic TOEFL scores for undergraduate admissions.
IELTS Academic	6.5 overall, 6.5 writing, 6.5 speaking, 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening	We accept the electronic Test Report Form (TRF). Waterloo's e-transfer institution name is University of Waterloo – Undergraduate OR University of Waterloo Admissions.
CAEL or CAEL online	70 overall, 60 per band, 70 writing, 70 speaking	You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo as a recipient institution.
PTE Academic	63 overall, 65 writing, 65 speaking	Send your Score Report Code or Registration ID to myapplication@uwaterloo.ca.
Cambridge English test (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency)	180 overall, 176 writing, 176 reading, 176 speaking, 176 listening	Go to the Candidate Results Online portal, input your ID and secret number then click on "Send my result."
Duolingo English test	The minimum requirement for tests completed before July 1, 2024 is an overall score of 120, with minimum Literacy and Production scores of 110. Tests completed after July 1, 2024 require an overall of 120 with Literacy and Production scores of 125 for direct entry to a Waterloo program.	Results will not be accepted without subscores. You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo – Undergraduate as a recipient institution.
EFAS - English for Academic Success	75% overall in 400 levels, 75% in each of academic, oral, and writing	Your scores will be sent to us automatically by the English Language Institute.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!